Lesson 2.docx

**Lesson Notes: Understanding the Information Landscape** **Objective:** To explore the different types of information sources, understand the distinctions between them, and learn how to navigate and utilize these sources effectively. **1. Introduction to the Information Landscape** **Information...

**Lesson Notes: Understanding the Information Landscape** **Objective:** To explore the different types of information sources, understand the distinctions between them, and learn how to navigate and utilize these sources effectively. **1. Introduction to the Information Landscape** **Information Landscape:** - Refers to the variety of sources and types of information available to users. - Encompasses both traditional (print) and digital (online) formats. **Importance:** - Knowing where and how to find information is crucial for effective research. - Helps in selecting the most appropriate sources for specific information needs. **2. Types of Information Sources** **Different epistemologies have different views regarding the importance of different kinds of information sources. The various types of information sources can be divided into two broad categories.** **2.1. Documentary Sources.** **Documentary sources of information encompass written, recorded, or otherwise documented materials that serve as valuable resources for understanding and interpreting various aspects of human knowledge. These sources include books, journals, newspapers, government reports, manuscripts, audiovisual recordings, and more. Documentaries, films, and online platforms also contribute to this category. These materials serve as repositories of historical events, cultural practices, scientific advancements, and various subjects. Researchers, historians, and scholars often rely on documentary sources to access primary or secondary information, construct narratives, and deepen their understanding of different fields. Whether exploring the pages of a historical manuscript, analyzing data from a scientific report, or watching a documentary film, documentary sources play a pivotal role in preserving, disseminating, and conveying information across various domains. As technology continues to evolve, digital platforms and online archives further contribute to the accessibility and diversity of documentary sources, shaping the way information is documented, shared, and accessed in contemporary society.** **These are generally published or recorded documents of knowledge. Documentary sources may be as under:** **2.1.1. PRIMARY SOURCES of information are the first published records of original research and development or description of new applications or new interpretations of an old theme or idea. There are original documents representing unfiltered original ideas. The primary source is a term used in several disciplines to describe source material closest to the person, information, period, or idea being studied. In historiography, a primary source (also called original source) is an artifact, a document, a recording, or other information source created at the time under study. If created by a human source, then a source with direct personal knowledge of the described events.** **It serves as a source of information about the topic. Similar definitions are used in Library Science and other areas of scholarship.** **Examples:** - **Book** is a medium for recording [information](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information) in the form of [writing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Writing) or images, composed of many [pages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Page_(paper)) that are [bound](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bookbinding) together and protected by a [cover](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_cover) - **Periodicals**, often called journals or magazines, are regularly recurring publications, such as weekly, monthly, or quarterly. These publications serve as valuable sources of information across various disciplines, providing readers with current and in-depth coverage of specific topics. Periodicals encompass various subjects, including academic research, news, entertainment, and specialized interests. Academic journals publish peer-reviewed articles that contribute to advancing knowledge within specific fields. At the same time, magazines often offer a mix of articles, features, and visuals to cater to a broader readership. The periodic nature of these publications ensures that readers stay informed about the latest developments, research findings, and trends in their areas of interest, making periodicals an essential component of the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of information dissemination. - **Conference Paper** is a written document that forms the basis for an oral presentation. It's an academic exploration of the learner's area of research and their research findings. - **Research Monographs** are separately published reports on original research that are too long, too specialized, or otherwise unsuitable for publication in one of the standard journals. Each Monograph is self-contained, frequently summarizes existing theory or practice before presenting the author's original and previously unpublished work, and is likely to be one of a series of such research monographs in the same field. - **Research Reports** are recorded data prepared by researchers or statisticians after analyzing the information gathered by conducting organized research, typically in the form of surveys or qualitative methods. A research report is a reliable source to recount details about a conducted research. It is most often considered to be a true testimony of all the work done to garner specificities of research. - **Patent** is the granting of a property right by a sovereign authority to an inventor. This grant provides the inventor exclusive rights to the patented process, design, or invention for a designated period in exchange for a comprehensive disclosure of the invention. They are a form of incorporeal right. - Standards - Thesis - Industrial and trade literature - Manuscripts - Unpublished Sources: - memorandum - Laboratory notebooks - Diaries - Company - Files - Portraits - State Papers - Websites\ Video Recordings - Speeches - Works of Art, architecture, - literature and music. **2.1.2. SECONDARY SOURCES of information refer to materials that provide interpretations, analyses, or evaluations of primary sources. These sources are created after an event or a period has passed, offering a reflective or synthesized perspective on historical events, scientific discoveries, or various topics. Unlike primary sources that offer firsthand evidence, secondary sources include books, journal articles, documentaries, and other forms of media that analyze and interpret primary source materials. These materials contribute to the broader understanding of a subject by providing context, analysis, and scholarly interpretations. Secondary sources are valuable in academic research and historical inquiry as they offer perspectives, critiques, and reflections that help shape a more comprehensive understanding of events or phenomena. Researchers often rely on primary and secondary sources to build a well-rounded and nuanced interpretation of a particular subject.** **\ Types of Secondary Sources of Information:** **1. Index Type:** \(a) **Index.** An index, in the context of information organization, is a systematic and alphabetical list or guide that serves as a reference to locate specific terms, topics, or concepts within a larger body of content. Indexing is common in books, academic journals, databases, and other informational resources. It allows users to quickly locate relevant information without reading the entire document. In a book, for example, an index is typically found at the end and contains entries with page numbers, directing readers to the pages where particular keywords or subjects are discussed. In digital contexts, indexes are also crucial components of search engines, helping users retrieve relevant information efficiently. Whether in print or digital formats, an index enhances the accessibility of information, providing a valuable tool for researchers, students, and readers seeking specific content within a larger body of text. \(b) **Bibliography**. A bibliography is a comprehensive and systematic list of sources, references, or works cited in a particular document or scholarly work. It is a valuable tool for researchers, students, and readers to identify and access the materials consulted or referenced by the author. Bibliographies can take various forms, including annotated bibliographies that provide summaries or evaluations of each source. They are commonly found at the end of academic papers, articles, books, and research projects, presenting a transparent record of the sources used to create the work. Beyond being a citation practice, bibliographies allow readers to delve deeper into the subject matter, explore related works, and verify the credibility and diversity of the sources employed in the research process. As a fundamental aspect of academic writing, bibliographies contribute to the research endeavor's transparency, accountability, and integrity by acknowledging other authors' intellectual debts and contributions. \(c) **Indexing periodicals.** Indexing periodicals involves systematically organizing and categorizing information contained within recurring publications, such as journals and magazines. This process aims to create a structured and searchable database of the content, making it easier for researchers, scholars, and readers to locate specific topics, articles, or authors. In periodicals, indexing often includes creating an alphabetical list of terms or subjects along with references to the relevant pages or issues where they appear. Developing comprehensive indexes enhances the accessibility and usability of periodicals, allowing users to navigate vast amounts of information efficiently. Indexing is particularly crucial in academic and research contexts, where scholars rely on these tools to identify relevant literature and stay abreast of developments in their respective fields. Digital advancements have further facilitated the creation of online indexes, making it possible to search and retrieve information from periodicals with incredible speed and precision. \(d) **Abstracting Periodicals.** Abstracting periodicals involves the creation of concise and informative summaries, known as abstracts, for individual articles or papers published within recurring journals or magazines. The abstract provides a condensed overview of the main objectives, methods, results, and conclusions of the original work. This process is instrumental in distilling the essential content of scholarly articles, making it easier for researchers, academics, and readers to quickly grasp the key insights without delving into the full text. Abstracts are crucial in academic databases, serving as entry points for users seeking relevant literature on specific topics. In addition to aiding in information retrieval, abstracting contributes to disseminating knowledge by providing a snapshot of research findings. Researchers often rely on abstracts to decide whether an article aligns with their interests and warrants further exploration. **2. Survey Type:** \(a) **Review.** Reviews in the context of a survey type refer to comprehensive and evaluative summaries of existing literature or research within a specific field or topic. In this survey-type review, researchers systematically analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive overview of knowledge in a particular area. These reviews go beyond mere summarization by critically assessing the quality, methodologies, and findings of the studies included. The goal is to offer readers a deeper understanding of the current state of research, identify gaps or inconsistencies in the existing literature, and provide insights for future investigations. Survey-type reviews are common in academic disciplines where a broad understanding of the existing body of knowledge is essential for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. These reviews advance scholarly dialogue by presenting a holistic view of research developments, offering a foundation for informed decision-making, and guiding future research directions within a specific domain. \(b) Treatise (c)Monograph **3. Reference Type:** **(also considered tertiary):** Reference books, often categorized as tertiary sources, are distinctive in providing quick and concise information across a wide range of subjects. These books are designed to be consulted for specific facts, definitions, or brief overviews rather than read cover to cover. Encyclopedias, dictionaries, almanacs, atlases, and handbooks are common examples of reference books. Encyclopedias offer comprehensive information on various topics, often arranged alphabetically, while dictionaries provide definitions and explanations of words. Almanacs present statistical and calendar information, atlases provide maps and geographical details, and handbooks offer practical guidance on specific subjects. Reference books are valuable tools for students, researchers, and general readers seeking immediate and reliable information. They are often found in libraries and are indispensable for answering quick queries, gaining an overview of a topic, or verifying facts. The structured and condensed nature of reference books makes them an essential component of the information landscape, complementing more in-depth sources in research and exploration. \(a) **Encyclopedia** a work that contains information on all branches of knowledge or treats comprehensively a particular branch of knowledge usually in articles arranged alphabetically often by subject \(b) **Dictionary** a reference source in print or electronic form containing words usually alphabetically arranged along with information about their forms, pronunciations, functions, etymologies, meanings, and syntactic and idiomatic uses. (c)**Hand book** **and Manual** a concise reference book covering a particular subject; a book capable of being conveniently carried as a ready reference \(d) Critical Tables **2.1.3. TERTIARY SOURCES of information are compilation and summary resources that aggregate information from primary and secondary sources. These sources distill complex data and knowledge into easily digestible formats, often in encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, or almanacs. Tertiary sources serve as reference materials that provide overviews, summaries, and background information on various topics. Unlike primary and secondary sources, which directly engage with original data or interpretive analyses, tertiary sources focus on organizing and presenting information in a concise and accessible manner. They are particularly useful for individuals seeking introductory or general knowledge on a subject. They offer a convenient starting point before delving into more specialized or in-depth research using primary and secondary sources. Examples of tertiary sources include general encyclopedias, subject-specific encyclopedias, and reference books that provide brief explanations, definitions, and summaries on various topics.** **Examples:** **1. Bibliography of Bibliographies: A "Bibliography of Bibliographies" is a meta-level bibliographic resource that compiles references to other bibliographies. It provides a comprehensive guide to existing bibliographic works, providing researchers, librarians, and scholars with a systematic overview of sources available on a particular subject or within a specific field. This type of bibliography is particularly valuable for those looking to explore in-depth research on a topic or understand the scope of available literature within a discipline.** **2. Directories: Directories are compilations of information listing individuals, organizations, businesses, or institutions along with their contact details and other relevant data. They serve as valuable resources for finding addresses, phone numbers, and other contact information for specific people or entities. Directories can be general or specialized, focusing on specific professions, industries, regions, or demographics. Examples include business directories, telephone directories, and professional directories.** **3. Yearbooks, on the other hand, are annual publications that summarize and highlight key events, developments, and statistics for a particular year. They often include information about notable individuals, organizations, sports, cultural events, and other significant happenings. Yearbooks serve as historical records, capturing the essence of a specific period. They can cover various topics, including education, sports, politics, and entertainment. Academic institutions, governments, and various organizations often publish yearbooks to document the noteworthy occurrences of a given year.** **3. Guide to Literature: A "Guide to Literature" is an invaluable compass for individuals navigating the expansive realm of scholarly and professional knowledge within a specific field. This reference work is designed to assist researchers, students, and scholars identify, access, and comprehend the key literature relevant to their study area. Offering a curated roadmap, a Guide to Literature typically includes bibliographies, recommended reading lists, critical reviews, and annotations that highlight seminal works, influential authors, and foundational studies. These guides help users understand the historical context, methodological approaches, and significant contributions within a discipline, facilitating a deeper engagement with the existing body of knowledge. Whether used for literature reviews, research projects, or academic exploration, a Guide to Literature is an essential tool that streamlines navigating and comprehending the vast literature landscape within a specific academic or professional domain.** **4. List of research in progress: A "List of Research in Progress" typically refers to a compilation or catalog of ongoing research projects within a specific field or academic discipline. This list serves as a resource for scholars, researchers, and the academic community to stay informed about their peers' current research endeavors and topics. It can be maintained by academic institutions, research organizations, or professional associations and may be available in various formats, such as online databases, publications, or research bulletins.** **2.2. Non-Documentary Sources.** **Non-documentary sources of information refer to data or knowledge not conveyed through written or recorded materials but derived from various experiential, observational, or tangible sources. These sources encompass various formats, providing valuable insights that may not be captured in traditional written documents. Non-documentary sources include oral histories, interviews, artifacts, physical objects, audiovisual recordings, sensory observations, and direct experiences. Non-documentary sources enrich our understanding of historical events, cultural practices, and social phenomena by offering a more immersive and contextual perspective. Unlike written or recorded documents, non-documentary sources often convey the lived experiences, emotions, and nuances that contribute to a holistic comprehension of a given subject. Researchers and historians frequently integrate non-documentary sources into their work to capture the multifaceted aspects of human endeavors, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced interpretation of the past and present.** **Types of Non-documentary sources** **2.2.1. Formal non-documentary sources of information refer to structured, organized, and institutionalized channels through which information is conveyed but does not necessarily rely on traditional written or recorded documents. These sources are characterized by their official and systematic nature. Examples of formal non-documentary sources include:** - **Official Meetings and Proceedings: **Minutes, transcripts, or summaries of formal meetings, conferences, and gatherings where discussions, decisions, and presentations occur. - **Speeches and Lectures: **Formal presentations or speeches delivered by experts, scholars, or authorities in a particular field, often documented through audio or video recordings. - **Surveys and Questionnaires: **Structured data collection tools used by institutions, governments, or research organizations to gather information from a sample population. - **Databases and Data Repositories: **Structured data collections maintained by organizations, institutions, or research bodies, encompassing statistical information, research findings, or datasets. - **Official Statistics: **Information published by government agencies or authoritative bodies, including demographic data, economic indicators, and social statistics. **2.2.2. Informal non-documentary sources** of information are typically unstructured and personal channels through which knowledge is conveyed. These sources provide insights, perspectives, and experiential information in a less formalized manner. Here are examples of informal non-documentary sources: - **Oral Histories: **Personal accounts, stories, and narratives conveyed through spoken words, capturing firsthand experiences and perspectives. - **Interviews: **Conversations with individuals to gather information, opinions, or expert insights. Interviews can be unstructured or loosely organized, allowing for more open-ended responses. - **Artifacts and Objects: **Physical items, relics, or objects from the past that hold cultural, historical, or symbolic significance, providing tangible evidence of human activities. - **Observations: **Systematic or casual observations of events, behaviors, or phenomena. This method is often used in social sciences and anthropology to understand human interactions. - **Audiovisual Recordings: **Recordings in audio or video format capturing events, interviews, performances, or visual and auditory aspects of a subject. These recordings may not follow a formal script or structure. - **Sensory Data: **Information gathered through the senses, such as taste, touch, smell, and sound. Sensory data provides experiential insights into cultural practices, environments, and events. - **Personal Narratives: **Informal accounts and stories individuals share about their experiences, opinions, and observations. - **Community Dialogues: **Informal discussions and conversations within communities, providing insights into local perspectives, traditions, and issues. - **Social Media Content: **Posts, comments, and discussions on social media platforms that reflect personal opinions, experiences, and reactions. - **Informal Conversations: **Everyday discussions and dialogues between individuals that convey informal knowledge, opinions, and anecdotes. **References:** **Ashikuzzaman, M.D. (2013). Sources of information. *Library and Information Science Network*. Retrieved September 12, 2024 from https://www.lisedunetwork.com/sources-of-information/**